Ascites

[Luz777]

About 1 1/2 month ago my father was hospitalized and 18 lbs of fluid was drained from his abdomen. This was the first time he had this procedure done. I would like to know how often he needs to have this procedure done.  What symptoms should we look for since we were told that the fluid can become infected.  He has been diagnosed with liver cirrohsis.

[popeyeblue]

My brother died on Christmas of last year of cirrhosis.  He lived 2months after he was diagnosed....he had fluid drained weekly...he eventially was admitted to Duke University Hospital for more specialized care...while there his kidneys quit working and the doc said it was probably because fluid was drained to often.  Not to scare you but sometimes you may need second opinions on procedures done to your father.

popeyeblue

[Bob368]

My brother has also been diagnosed with severe liver cirrhosis. He had his abdomen drained twice, 10 liters and 12 liters. After 4 weeks in the hospital, he's at home now. Your father should be on antibiotics, because of the infection he could get called peritonitis, this can be fatal. This is where the build up of fluid in the stomach cavity, (ascites) becomes infected. Your father needs to NOT drink alcohol, no Tylenol, and stay an a low salt diet, ( 2 gm or less per day ). Milk thistle is something I recommend to take.

If you have anymore questions, ask and I will try to answer.

Take care

Bob :)